Throw or keep your bouquet?

Traditionally, after the marriage ceremony the bride would get all the single women together, then turn to have her back to them and throw the bouquet into the air. The idea was that it brought luck to whoever caught it and that they would be the next one to be married.

I have attended many weddings where the bride has chosen not to throw her bouquet but instead have it dried so it could be kept (where its made from fresh flowers) or has chosen to give it to someone special at the wedding or even laid it on a grave of someone that has been truly missed from the occasion, such as a family member or close friend.

All of these ideas are personal to you. Personally, I did throw mine before the first dance, and rescued it afterwards to place on my Grandad's grave. The person who caught it was pleased that she'd taken part and had no problem with giving back to me. I have been at weddings where the bride wanted to keep her own bouquet so had a smaller version made by the florist purely to be able to throw it.

Its a lovely tradition, that it often amusing as your close friends, family and anyone else who qualifies dive to catch it, like their lives depend on it. I've even witnessed a few situations were pushing and fighting have taken place.

The best bit ... is watching the faces of the partners of the ladies who take part. some enjoy it, where as others go very white as if this means they might have to propose ... others are opened to the idea that their girlfriend/ partner might want to get married!

Its your wedding, so you should do what suits you, but its definitely worth considering!

Good luck!!!!!!!!!!